by USA TODAY

by USA TODAY

LOS ANGELES (AP) - An attorney for a woman seen on video being repeatedly punched by a California Highway Patrol officer says tests show she had no drugs or alcohol in her system.

Drivers who called emergency services before the incident said Marlene Pinnock appeared high, drunk or "loaded."

Attorney Caree Harper says Pinnock has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and the homeless woman was off her medications for roughly two to three months when the July 1 altercation occurred. She says Pinnock was previously misdiagnosed with a different mental illness.

Pinnock is suing in federal court for civil rights violations.

The CHP says Pinnock was endangering herself by walking on Interstate 10 and the officer was trying to restrain her. The agency has pledged a rapid investigation.

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